Tom Ensell

Tom Ensell

“When going into my final year in agriculture at Harper and with no family farm to go back to, I had a number of options for what to do after graduation. One of which was overseas work. This appealed to me, as it would give me experience in agriculture somewhere other than the UK, but it would also provide a new life outside of agriculture. At this point I didn’t have any fixed ideas on where I wanted to go. However, that was about to change…

What happened?

“An email came round at Harper saying a recruitment consultancy was to give a presentation on working in Canada. Thinking I had nothing to lose, I went along and met the guys of Moveover. Even after their fifteen-minute presentation, I knew that this was something I would be seriously interested in.

Did you get offered a job?

“We arranged for a subsequent discussion about the positions available in Canada that might be of interest. The process Ruth and Bruce outlined seemed so simple, as they matched my interests and experiences with possible employers. This just took all the stress out of job hunting in a different country, especially as I was trying to concentrate on my final year university work.

What about the job?

“They also gave great advice on the necessary paperwork and forms that would need to be competed to gain visas and work permits. Following a number of subsequent discussions Ruth came across an opportunity that she believed would suit my interests. This opportunity meant working on a large-scale arable farm, growing a range of crops. During a discussion with the family that runs the farm, I outlined to them my experience and what I was looking for from working abroad; Canadian life experience as well as Canadian agriculture. Following this I was definitely interested and in Moveover’s words, ready to ‘make the move’.

What is Canadian agriculture like?

“Canadian arable agriculture is based around machinery productivity, so although the farm I was based on was just over 11,000 acres, it’s farmed by just five people; the farmer, his two sons, one other full time worker and myself. As with any new job, there are uncertainties but within hours of arrival I immediately felt part of the family and at ease in my new role on the farm. Things started out rather cold as when I landed spring was yet to arrive; there was still around two feet of snow and with temperatures still well below zero.

And the work?

“Once the season finally changed, I discovered it is very intensive for certain periods of time and can be split into three main timeframes; seeding, spraying and harvest. This meant long hours, but these were definitely supported by the amazing home cooked meals that came out to the field every evening; we had a short break for everyone to enjoy the meal and we would always have some banter. Along with this, my other main reasons for enjoying working were how relaxed everyone is, even on days when everything seems to breakdown there’s always a laugh and smile about the place. Secondly, is the freedom to use my own initiative as to what jobs need doing, and just getting on with things that need to be done.”

What about the future in Canada?

“Having finished a season working in Canada I feel it has definitely narrowed my goals as to where I would like my career to go. I would like to work on and ultimately manage a large-scale arable unit and I might just find something here in Canada.”

Did you have a social life?

“As well as Canadian agriculture, my experience of Canadian social life has also been amazing. I was lucky enough to be working for a family with children similar to my age, so when not working I spent time with them and their friends. The major social highlight of the year was definitely going to the Craven Festival with them. Even though I’m not particularly a country music fan, it was still an amazing atmosphere and meeting countless new people and enjoying beers and BBQ’s with them.”

How did you feel about Moveover?

“Now that the season has nearly come to an end, it can be summed up with; a very interesting and extremely friendly and relaxed working atmosphere. I also had a very good social experience. All of which wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the Moveover team. I definitely recommend them to anyone willing to make their move and work overseas.”